It was nice to not have to wake up to a 6:30 am alarm this morning. I love the beginning of summer and the change in routine. But this summer feels different already. Still exciting, but a different feel because I have WORK to do!!  Only 51 days left to figure out the details of this big move, AND enjoy our California summer with friends and vacation and have the kids at home without a plan!! In the end, it’ll all come together – it always does, but I’m a bit of a control freak with my lists, and strategies and plans that swirl around on my to-do lists and in my head and trying to fit as much as I can into each day. 

I felt a little anxious today with the ying and yang of work and play, but it all worked out and I think we all had fun. We made chocolate croissants for breakfast and shared them with Megan before she had to leave. Afterwards, April drove Megan to the airport and I took all our kids to Kristin’s for a graduation brunch with a few friends. It was so nice to be together chatting and enjoying each other, while the kids played in the RAIN!!  WTH?!? 

Afterwards, the kids and I sat together and talked about our summer wish list of places we’d like to visit and things we wanted to do. Luckily the list isn’t too overwhelming. I put limits on the amount of TV/Video screen time and made them come up with their own list of other things they might want to do instead. Trying to manage expectations a bit and to set up some boundaries.  Little C went on a play date and the rest of us hung out for awhile. 

In the afternoon,  I took the kids to Target to use their gift cards from Megan. Little C picked a water gun and a Lego guy and some Poppers. Big C bought some new games – which is perfect, because I want us to play together, especially when we move. And J does what she usually does – negotiated a deal! She asked that I use her card to pay for my stuff and give her the cash instead. She doesn’t like to spend her money. I let them each pick out a snack that I don’t typically keep in the house and these chips and dips were Lil’ C’s choice. His “girlfriend” introduced these to him last summer – brought back fun memories!  J picked Jolly Ranchers and Big C picked a new Dorito flavored bag of chips.  

We came home from Target and enjoyed our savory snacks while playing C’s new game. Let the summer games begin!!